A Holistic Approach to Health
Hi, I’m Susy. As a yoga therapist and teacher, I’m passionate about holistic health. But I’m
also a qualified Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner, a role that allows me to help people tackl
chronic health issues at their root cause.
What is Lifestyle Medicine?
Lifestyle Medicine is a cutting-edge, evidence-based branch of medicine that addresses the
root causes of lifestyle-related chronic diseases. These include conditions like chronic
hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. In fact, in 2023, ischemic heart
disease remained the leading cause of death in Australia. Source: Australian Bureau of
Statistics.
Currently, 34% of Australian adults have high blood pressure, and we’re falling behind other
nations in terms of effective blood pressure control. As Professor Alta Shutte of the University
of New South Wales notes, “It is past time for us to act. Prevention, detection, and effective
treatment are our best weapons against heart disease and stroke.” (Shutte, A. 2023, The
Conversation).
Lifestyle Medicine doesn’t replace your regular medications, but when followed diligently, it
can help address the root cause of your condition, potentially reducing your reliance on
medication over time. If you don’t have a chronic condition, Lifestyle Medicine is proven to
help prevent them. The best part? It’s never too late to start.
The Five Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
Lifestyle Medicine focuses on five key areas that are scientifically proven to improve hea
and well-being:
- Physical Activity
- Good Nutrition
- Effective Stress Management
- Healthy Relationships & Community
- Quality Sleep
Making Lifestyle Changes Simple & Sustainable
We all know how overwhelming lifestyle changes can feel—especially when the advice is as
simple as “eat less and exercise more.” But when you have the right guidance, small,
sustainable changes can make a big difference.
At Riverside Yoga Rooms, I offer lifestyle programs designed to help you make practical,achievable improvements to your daily habits. As a Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner, I’ll support
you every step of the way in making enjoyable changes that fit your life. It could be as simpl
as starting your day with a 30-minute walk, learning how to prepare delicious, plant-based
meals that nourish your body, or joining a yoga class with friends to nurture both your body
and your sense of community.
By focusing on these pillars, we can work together to improve not only your physical health
but your overall quality of life.
Why not come down to Riverside Yoga Rooms in February to learn more and join a
community of like-minded people.
Reference: Shutte, A. (2023). Heart disease and stroke: Prevention, detection, and effective
treatment. The Conversation.
